Car Hire Excess Insurance Explained
Most people don’t realise they’re paying far more than they need to for hire car insurance.
Rental companies often charge £10–£45 per day to reduce your excess, while standalone car hire excess insurance can provide similar protection from just a few pounds a day.
Why doesn’t everyone use car hire excess insurance?
Because most people assume their only option is to buy insurance directly from the rental company.
When you collect your car, rental desk staff often strongly encourage you to upgrade your cover. In a foreign country, after a long flight and with a large security deposit hanging over your head, it’s easy to feel pressured into saying yes.
Compare rental company prices
Rental companies can charge dramatically more than standalone excess insurance providers. Here are some typical daily prices charged at the rental desk.
*Costs based on a UK resident over 30 renting a compact car from Florence Airport, Italy for 7 days in June 2026. Actual prices and savings may vary.
Save money with Standalone car excessS providers
See selected standalone providers and potentially save hundreds compared with rental desk insurance prices.
What is car hire excess insurance?
Standard rental agreements usually include a large excess — often between £1,000 and £2,500.
This means if the vehicle is damaged or stolen, you could still be liable for a large bill. Car hire excess insurance protects you against these charges. Instead of paying expensive rates at the rental desk, you can buy standalone cover online before you travel for a fraction of the cost. Many standalone policies also include cover for windscreens, tyres, wheels, roof and underbody damage — areas often excluded by standard rental agreements.
Do I need it?
It’s not legally required, but it can save you hundreds — or even thousands — if something goes wrong. If you want peace of mind while travelling without paying inflated rental desk prices, standalone excess insurance is usually the smarter option.